You are here

Hot Time, Summer on the Barbie

Multimedia

For many dads, being at the grill is the only place they want to be on a warm summer weekend. For others, a comfy lawn chair is the preferred spot. Whichever kind of father you're celebrating this weekend will appreciate this easy meal from the grill.

Most of the work is done ahead of time, in the kitchen, which means that when you head out to the grill, you won't have a lot to do. That's when you pour the mojitos.

Mojitos are a traditional Cuban cocktail of white rum, limes, sugar, soda water and mint. They are cool and refreshing, the perfect antidote to the hot summer sun.

And they pair perfectly with pulled chicken sandwiches, a take on the traditional pulled pork sandwiches. This complex-looking dish actually comes together quickly and easily. The sauce ingredients are simply combined in a bowl and then gently heated on the grill; the chicken is cooked quickly on the grill over high heat, and then "pulled" with two forks. Don't try to get fancy with the rolls; the softer the bun, the better it will be at absorbing all the spicy, flavorful sauce.

Serve the chicken sandwiches with an easy, colorful slaw that marinates while you prepare the chicken. Simply toss sliced cabbage (using red and green makes for a more attractive salad) and onions with a tangy cider vinegar dressing, and let it sit for a few hours for the flavors to meld and the cabbage to soften slightly.

The warm potato salad features quickly grilled scallions that add a dash of color and flavor. For dessert, mix up some fresh berries and splash with brandy or a flavored liqueur.

Mojitos(Pareve)

To muddle the mint mixture, use a large spoon (a wooden one works well) in an aggressive up-and-down motion. Muddling creates friction to dissolve the sugar and bruise the mint, which is required to release the fragrant oils.